The Pavana River, a crucial water source for the twin city of Pimpri-Chinchwad, has been reclassified into the ‘priority 1’ or most polluted category of rivers/river stretches, owing to a significant increase in Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD). This reclassification comes as a cause for concern, especially given the river’s previous categorization as ‘priority 2’ by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
The CPCB has established five categories for prioritizing river stretches across India based on pollution levels. The ‘priority 1’ category indicates the most polluted stretches, prompting the board to direct state pollution control boards and local authorities to take immediate measures to curb pollution. Conversely, ‘priority 5’ category river stretches are considered comparatively cleaner and do not require immediate attention.
Water sample testing conducted by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) between November 2023 and January 2024 revealed a BOD level in the Pavana River exceeding 30 mg/L. This elevated BOD level signifies a decrease in the natural oxygen level in the water, hindering the processing of organic waste. The river’s entry into the ‘priority 1’ category underscores the urgency of addressing the pollution issue.
Manchak Jadhav, sub-regional officer at MPCB Pune, explained, “The current level is significantly high, and hence, the river has entered the priority 1 category which requires urgent attention.”
The Pavana River has been segmented into four stretches covering Pimprigaon, Chinchwadgaon, Ravet, and Sangavi. In 2022, the BOD at Pimprigaon ranged between 4.8 and 15.9 mg/L, with a water quality index above 60. However, in 2023, the BOD exceeded 20 from November onwards, reaching 31 mg/L in December, indicating poor water quality.
Chinchwadgaon, Ravet, and Sangavi also experienced an upward trend in BOD levels, with Sangavi reaching 30 mg/L in December 2023. The consistent increase in BOD levels is attributed to factors such as increased urbanization, inadequate sewage water treatment infrastructure, and the mixing of untreated sewage with river water.
Despite directives from the CPCB urging local bodies to expand sewage treatment plant networks and increase treatment capacities, pollution levels persist, leading to penalties for civic authorities for delays and negligence.
